The flag of Benin is a simple yet striking design that features two horizontal stripes of equal size – one green and one yellow – with a red vertical stripe in the center. The green stripe represents the country’s lush vegetation and agriculture, while the yellow stripe symbolizes the country’s wealth and natural resources. The red stripe represents the courage and sacrifices made by the people of Benin in their fight for independence.
The flag was adopted on November 16, 1959, just before Benin gained independence from France on August 1, 1960. The design was created by a young student named Michel Awohounou, who won a national competition to design the new flag.
The flag of Benin has undergone a few changes over the years. In 1975, the coat of arms was added to the center of the flag, but it was removed in 1990 during a period of political upheaval. The current design, without the coat of arms, was readopted in 1990 and has remained unchanged since then.
The flag of Benin is a symbol of the country’s rich history and culture, as well as its struggle for independence. It is a source of pride for the people of Benin and is often displayed at national events and celebrations. The simple yet powerful design of the flag has made it a recognizable symbol of the country around the world.